A houseplant in all but frost-free climates; give bright light. In summer can be moved outdoors to a partly shaded patio.

Winter orchids

Given their glamorous appearance and considerable cachet, orchids make impressive gifts.

Their thick, waxy flowers last four to six weeks, often longer. Many orchids make good house or patio plants ― no steamy hothouse environment is necessary to keep them happy.

With reasonable care, they'll bloom again next winter and for years to come.

Christmas cactus

It can grow on you in more ways than one.

Sure, the plants just get bigger and better every year. They pump out masses of delicate jungle flowers in rosy red, white, orange, pink, and pale yellow, depending on the variety, just in time for the holidays.

And although they’re true cactus, their spines are so tiny and soft that you’ll scarcely notice them ― and never get pricked.